Thanks to artists like Lankum, folk music has been enjoying renewed acclaim in Ireland in recent times. Now, with the support of RTÉ, it’s also getting its own National Awards Ceremony.

There was a small hint of apprehension in the voice of Lankum member Ian Lynch when he last spoke with Hot Press back in 2017, around the time they released their phenomenal Between The Earth And Sky album. He was worried that, having changed their name from ‘Lynched’ (with its racist connotations) to ‘Lankum’, fans might be confused and the band might lose momentum.

A brief recap of their recent highlights suggests that their fears were somewhat unfounded.

“Hanging out with Christy Moore, eating sandwiches and playing music in his kitchen,” Ian enthuses. “That was my biggest highlight. That was a pinch yourself moment.”

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